EtherCAT Interface Extends Modular Automation Connectivity

SIGMATEK has introduced the EC 122 EtherCAT interface module designed to connect the company’s S-DIAS modular I/O system to EtherCAT networks. The module supports integration of both standard and safety I/O modules and enables data exchange between EtherCAT devices and the S-DIAS system bus in industrial automation environments.

The device targets machine and system manufacturers requiring deterministic communication in distributed control architectures, particularly in sectors such as machine building, factory automation, and process systems that rely on real-time industrial Ethernet connectivity.

Integration of S-DIAS Modules into EtherCAT Networks
The EC 122 provides a gateway between the S-DIAS system bus and EtherCAT networks by acting as an EtherCAT slave interface. The module includes one EtherCAT input port and one EtherCAT output port, enabling line-topology connections within an EtherCAT communication infrastructure.

In addition to managing EtherCAT slave configuration, the interface module handles process data exchange between the EtherCAT network and connected S-DIAS modules. This allows distributed I/O modules both standard and safety variants to be incorporated into EtherCAT-based automation architectures without requiring separate communication interfaces.

An integrated power supply enables operation of up to 32 connected S-DIAS modules. The system automatically detects the connected I/O modules, simplifying commissioning and system configuration in modular automation systems.

Increased Process Data Capacity and Safety Integration
Compared with the previous EC 121 interface module, the EC 122 increases available process data capacity. The higher data throughput supports more demanding automation tasks, particularly applications requiring large amounts of real-time I/O data.

The module also supports Safety over EtherCAT (FSoE), allowing EtherCAT subdevices to be integrated into functional safety architectures as FSoE slaves. This enables safety-related signals to be transmitted over the same real-time Ethernet network used for standard control data, supporting integrated safety concepts in machinery and production systems.

For systems requiring larger distributed I/O configurations, the optional Power Boost Module PSB 001 allows an additional 32 modules to be addressed, expanding the total number of connected S-DIAS modules within a system.

Compact Form Factor for Distributed Control Cabinets
The EC 122 is designed for compact industrial installations and measures 25 × 104 × 72 mm (width × height × depth). The small form factor supports integration into space-constrained control cabinets while maintaining compatibility with the modular S-DIAS platform.

The interface module extends SIGMATEK’s portfolio of real-time Ethernet connectivity solutions for automation systems. By enabling EtherCAT connectivity and integrated functional safety support, the module provides machine builders with a method to combine modular I/O architectures with EtherCAT-based industrial communication infrastructures.

www.sigmatek-automation.com